Study each topic below — these are the core knowledge areas tested in Year 1. Build a solid foundation here before advancing to Year 2 material.
📖CSA S16 — Steel Construction
- CSA S16 governs design and construction of steel structures in Canada
- Limit States Design (LSD): factored resistance must exceed factored loads (φR ≥ αS)
- Weld capacity: governed by CWB W47.1 welder certification and W59 welded joints standard
- Stability: columns must be plumb within L/500; beams within L/600 for camber
📖Precast Erection
- Precast panels: engineered lifting inserts — never improvise rigging points
- Temporary bracing required until structural connections are complete and grouted
- Bearing pads (neoprene or EPDM) distribute load evenly at supports
- Double tees: erect from one end; don't allow walking on until properly connected
📖Post-Tensioning & Curtain Wall
- PT ironworkers install anchors, pockets, and ducts before pour
- Curtain wall: aluminum or steel frame carrying glass — supported from floor slabs
- Seismic drift accommodation: curtain wall connections allow movement without damage
- Anchor bolt tolerance: ±3 mm from design position in each direction
📖Welded Connections — Advanced
- Complete joint penetration (CJP) welds: full throat required — tested by UT or RT
- Partial joint penetration (PJP): throat less than material thickness — used in non-critical joints
- Preheat requirements: carbon steel over 25 mm thick requires preheat per AWS D1.1/CSA W59
- Visual weld inspection: check profile, crater cracks, undercut, overlap, size per drawing
⚙️High-Strength Bolt Tensioning Methods
- Turn-of-nut: snug tight then specified turns (½ to 1 full turn depending on bolt length)
- Calibrated wrench: torque wrench set to minimum bolt tension value
- Direct tension indicator (DTI): washer with protrusions that flatten when tension reached
- Twist-off-type (TC bolts): splined end shears off when tension is reached — self-indicating
🏗️Structural Erection Sequences
- Start at core or stiff bay: establish plumb grid then work outward
- Minimum 2 bolts per connection before releasing crane — 4 bolts preferred
- Day's work: complete all connections in erected area before end of shift
- Decking: install and fasten immediately after erecting each bay to brace frame